Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Love these Lawn -Care tips!


Stop mowing over your bad habits -- and other lawn-care tips April 30, 2013

We had an odd winter here Virginia's quiet Shenandoah Valley. We were still shoveling snow in late March, and in a single week, we missed three school days for different reasons. One day was the victim of snow, one for freezing rain and the third was cancelled for severe flooding of the Shenandoah River. In between the snow and ice, we had paradisiacal days in the 60s that could have been ripped from a glossy travel magazine.
No one has been more confused by spring's awkward shuffle than Mr. Grumpy Grass in my front yard. One freezing morning I heard him shout, "Wake me when you're serious," and then drift back to sleep.
Thankfully, three weeks ago, spring finally announced she was ready to stay and the yard awoke in a hurry. I pulled out my mower and after a tune-up by a friend who could fix a Carnival cruise ship engine with his eyes closed, I began tackling the grass in my front and side yards.
I made one pass after another, firing off menacing looks at the clusters of weeds as I mowed them down and blended them into the surrounding healthy green blades. I was slicing and dicing dandelions and crab grass with as much energy and excitement as Vince from the Slap Chop commercials.
When I was done, I admired my work and noticed that one particular section in the backyard looked so good, it could have gone to prom with the first fairway at Augusta National.
Just a few days later, the love was gone. Weeds as high as six inches were already poisoning the lawn again. And this time I noticed even thicker, more toxic varieties popping up and taking advantage of the recent rain.
Sure, I could have invested the time to do the hard work of removing the weeds. I could have carefully spread weed killer and gotten on my knees to pull the more stubborn weeds at their root. But why? Ain't nobody got time for that.
Instead, I fired up the mower and for a second time, cut down the weeds until they were barely distinguishable from the lush green grass around them. It felt good to have temporarily solved the problem, even though I knew it was a quick fix. For a day or two, the lawn looked just fine.
Then, before I knew it, I was standing on my porch looking at all the same weeds back in all the same spots. Some had returned thicker, others looked to have brought along a few squatter friends.
I stood for some time surveying the lawn, section by section. But the longer I looked, the more I didn't see grass at all - I saw my life.
How often have I chopped away the weeds of my life - bad habits - only to see them reappear again? I certainly recognize the things in my life that occasionally need improvement. But do I really make time to remove the weeds that stifle the rest of my personal growth? Or do I take a quick pass at the surface, trim away what's visible to the world and pretend the same weeds won't soon return?
How much easier would life be if we identified the weeds and made time to attack them at the root? What if we asked experts that are trained to know the best methods for success? What if we spent time on our knees doing the hard work to remove the toxic weeds that, if left untreated, can eventually overtake and smother a healthy yard?
I suspect a completely weed-free yard is something I'll never experience in this life. But maybe with a fresh perspective, I might be willing to try a little bit harder.
How about you?
 Read more of Jason's work here:

Monday, April 29, 2013

Smiling is Contagious!

I just heard on the news the other day that Depression is contagious. They went on to tell about different studies that they have done, and how just one person being Depressed all the time, could effect ( for the negative ) those around them whether it be in a family, work group or whatever. Knowing how many suffer from Depression, I didn't really think it was a whole post that I wanted to do. But I did find this blog interesting today, and I found it on my son's blog....how about that. Thanks Brad and Krystal !

It’s name is the Smile-Bot and it is based off of the theory that smiles are contagious. I like this idea, and it personally is a more uplifting article to write about. So go to Brad's Blog and check it out HERE:

“Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.”
Mother Teresa

 “Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.”
Dr. Seuss


Let me count the ways!

Loved this article by Jason F.Wright, that he wrote for his wife's birthday. I like the challenge he gives to all of us at the end also!
I am going to try it!

Good night dear friends!

Cupcakes at a Strawberry Shortcake Party #strawberryshortcake #partycupcakes

As I scribbled out her birthday card I began to list things I love about her. Some were obvious, others much less so. The more I wrote, the more came to mind and suddenly I'd challenged myself to list one thing for each year she's been alive. This week my wife turns 42. This officially ends the three-month period every year when she gets to say she married a much older man and that I robbed the cradle. I turned 42 on February 1.

As I scribbled out her birthday card I began to list things I love about her. Some were obvious, others much less so. The more I wrote, the more came to mind and suddenly I’d challenged myself to list one thing for each year she’s been alive.
But could I really do it?
The first few would be easy, right? I love her faith (1) in God and her (2) unwavering loyalty to his son, Jesus Christ. I love that she prays (3) often, reads (4) her scriptures daily and has filled many journals (5) with her insights on life, family and love.
I also love that she attends church (6) no matter the obstacles and fulfills her assignments there (7) with every ounce of energy she’s got.
My wife lives to serve (8) others and never hesitates to step outside (9) her comfort zone. She’s a terrific teacher (10) and equally stellar student (11). For every pesky weakness, she has an even more powerful desire to turn them to strengths (12).
I love that my wife is a marvelous mom (13). She is patient (14), but always forgiving (15). Because my work often puts me on the road, my wife carries an extra burden (16) that would cause me to murmur. Does she complain about wearing a dad hat sometimes? Never (17), and I love that about her, too.
Before I even knew her name, I knew my wife had gorgeous eyes (18) that could stop a man in his tracks, and hair (19) with a personality of its own. When she laughs (20), it’s impossible not to laugh with her. And when she simply smiles (21), you don’t return the smile because manners require it. You grin because your mouth has no other choice.
I’ve learned to love that she insists on holding my hand (22), even when I’m grouchy. In fact, she insists on holding my hands especially when I’m grouchy.
Even as we dated, I grew to love my wife’s respect for schedules (23). She always strives to be on time (24) and her organizational skills make that easier. I’m also in love with her work ethic (25) and the fact that she never quits (26) until a job is done.
My wife is considerate (27) of my siblings and their spouses and doesn’t love them because she has to — she loves them because she sees their goodness. She also honors (28) her mother and mine. What husband doesn’t love that?
I deeply admire my wife’s sense of patriotism (29) and her desire to understand both history (30) and today’s complicated political issues (31). I love that she jumps (32) into fights worth fighting and keeps her distance from those that aren’t (33). Will she compromise? (34) Yes, but only on preference, never on principle.
I love my wife’s sense of adventure (35). Join me on a trip I led to Peru? Why not? Want to drag our entire family to Hawaii, even while nursing a baby? Of course. How about driving across the country with kids but no husband? Sure, sign her up.
But I also love when she recognizes (36) her own limits and life’s responsibilities and simply kisses me goodbye at the airport, no matter who’s looking (37).
My wife doesn’t watch R-rated movies (38), rarely sees anything PG-13 and has refused to see some PG movies if she’s heard they’re not as clean as advertised. As a writer, I especially love her dedication to only read uplifting literature (39) and applauded her when just two weeks ago she gave up on a book she dearly loved after a sharp turn toward the morally bankrupt.

I love that she doesn’t pretend to be perfect (40), but works each day to be better than the day before. I love that she’s happy to be 42 (41) and doesn’t mind that it’s being published online and in a major U.S. newspaper.
Finally, I love Kodi Erekson Wright because she loves me back — even on the days I make that difficult (42).
As I scribbled my final items, I realized the problem wasn't coming up with 42 things I love about my sweetheart, the challenge was keeping it to such a low number.
Happy birthday, Mrs. Wright. I hope I’m still making lists when you’re 62, 82 and 102. And I hope you still insist on holding my hand.
Readers, if you’ve never made a list like this, I invite you to take the challenge. You just might be surprised at how long your own list can grow.
 You can read more of Jason's article here:

Saturday, April 27, 2013

Another sweet red head!

Last night about 10:00 Amy, John and girls arrived to sleep over here and for Amy to be closer to the hospital if needed. By 11:00 the contractions she had been having off and on since 5:00 got more intense. Jeff and John went to bed while they were waiting. Of course I couldn't sleep. I was trying to help watch Amy and make sure we were keeping the contractions timed. When she called the midwife, she told her to just go into the hospital and let them check you and see if you are really even in active labor. So I took Amy, thinking we would let John get as much sleep as he could... I sorta figured it was going to be a long night. As we walked outside to get in the car, I told Amy  "Well, there is a full moon out tonight and it is just after midnight plus it is her Due Date, so... this is probably going to be it!
The contractions were getting more steady after we had been there only a short time, so they decided to put her in a room. Less than 45 mins I think it was, she dilated from a 4 to a 9 and so it was show time. I called Jeff and told him to wake up John and send him to the hospital. She had a couple of friends who were there to help too, so she had a ton of support.
After 2 1/2 hours of pushing, Miss Audrey Jane was born at 4 :34 AM right on her due date! Amy asked that they not weigh her or clean her up for the first hour... but let her just hold her, and that was neat. Wish I could have had that with my babies, probably could have just didn't know that at the time. Not knowing what her weight was, everyone started guessing... I thought maybe 10lbs, she is really big and beautiful and has red hair; not nearly as red or as much as her sisters but red none the less. I left the hospital at 6:30am and got home and slept a couple of hours, jumped up showered and headed back to the hospital for the day. How fun to just hold Audrey. Neat to see how excited the girls are to have her.
(Just a few hours old )
Then tonight Jeff and I took the girls to dinner and then home to bed. Fun to hear Jenny asked on the way home "Nana, did you see my cute sister Baby Audrey?" Yes! " Is she going to be able to go home with us?" Yes,  " Oh good, Angie, did  you hear that? We get to keep Baby Audrey FOREVER! It was sweet.
We only have one photo, you can tell we are all wiped out by no sleep. Will get more soon.
I am just so grateful for the chance to be there and witness such a Miracle, and that is definitely what LIFE is...a Miracle. So glad that they are both here safe and sound. We have definitely been waiting for you Miss Audrey! Good night dear friend!

"May you touch dragonflies and stars, dance with the fairies and talk to the moon. May you grow up with love and gracious hearts and people who care. Welcome to the world little one, it's been waiting for you!"

Friday, April 26, 2013

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Hardships

I just found this poster and quote below.
I have to put this quote on my mirror sometime. This poster also reminds me of how good my life is, and that many have it much worse. So it helps me redirect my self pity thoughts. I do believe it though, some of the hardest trials in life is what makes us who we need to be. 
Today was a tough day, for the last couple of days I have been in a lot of pain with my back. Jeff and I took a different route on our walking the other night and the way home had a bit of an incline ( not much to most NORMAL people ) but it was more than I am used to. I sorta knew by the time we got home that I might be in trouble. I really hurt the next day and even threw up from the pain. Darn it... I hate when one little things throws me off like that. I have been struggling since that IME appointment I had with the insurance, and that chiropractor was so rough on me. I am so frustrated!!!
 Had to get to the Physical Therapist today and the Doctor too... for some pain patches ( I have never tried them, hope they work ) to get the pain under control. I came home after those appointments and just went to bed. What a day... definitely Bigger Than Me. But once again I will look at this poster and remember to keep it all in perspective. Baby steps, over and over again!
Good night dear friends!


 "Hope is the thing with feathers, that perches in the soul, and sings the tune without the words, and never stops at all."  ~ Emily Dickinson

With your whole heart and soul!


I love this quote! It does make a world of difference... if we put our heart and soul into whatever we do!
Good night dear friends!

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Happy Birthday Lee!

Twenty years ago, Jeff and I headed off early to the hospital for my C-section and arrival of our last baby...Lee Austin. We had talked about him so much, that is seemed like everyone was excited to meet him. A lot like we felt with all the other kids and our grandchildren.... and no Miss Audrey has not made her grand entrance into the world yet. I will tell you when she does.
I think the thing that struck me most about Lee is how he just seemed to complete our family, he was our fourth child and everyone couldn't get enough of Baby Wee ( as his sister Lauren used to call him).

He was the most shy of all of our kids and he was just happy to let his big Sister Lauren ( only 2 years older ) take center stage and he just followed her lead ( which was dangerous sometimes :) She loved him from the start and couldn't wait till he would grow up enough, to pretend with her. Most of the poor boy's life, he had something tied around his neck and Lauren telling him to bark like a dog! :) The fact that he survived those younger days with Lauren is a miracle in and of its self! :) But still they were always buddies and best friends!


But as you can see here that Best Friends thing ....never changed between them, and WE ALL feel the same about Austin Tashis! ( It's was a family nick name )

So even though he was our last, we have loved having him in our family! He has a heart of gold and is one of the most compassionate guys around. I feel blessed to be his MOM and so grateful that he is happy and enjoying school and his wonderful roommates. He has had his challenges but continues on and that will take him far in life! Yes, Lee Austin...we are so glad that you arrived 20 years ago today... our lives have been blessed ever since! Happy Birthday son!
the greatness within you



Monday, April 22, 2013

Happy Earth Day!

Because I have am a Weight Watchers Member, I get to have online support and help. I am not computer savy like most but still love it when they give you recipes, tips and other strategy's to help you lose weight and be healthy! They even had one for Earth Day! Thank goodness the sun came out today, it is just beautiful outside so I think I will go try a few of these ideas! 
Good night dear friends!

Get Out for Earth Day

Celebrate the earth with your own personalized sun salutation. These fun activities make the most of the great outdoors.
Get Out for Earth Day
April is a month of environmental celebrations. Earth Day is on the 22nd, and Arbor Day is celebrated on the 26th. So instead of just exercising outside, why not make the great outdoors part of your fitness routine?

"Environmental fitness is an exercise trend that's only going to get bigger," says Suzanne Nottingham, a spokesperson for the American Council for Exercise. The results feel as good as fresh air. Plus, you still get all the benefits of being outside.

"There's nothing like getting outside of concrete walls for stress reduction," says Nottingham. "You're not in a controlled, sterile environment, and outdoor workouts combine everything: cardio, strength-training, balance, and flexibility. Plus, 'outside' has no set hours, and no fee. You pick your own time and go."

Ready to make your workout green? Here are some easy ways to do it:

Head for the hills
See a hill when you're walking or running? Go for it. "Bumping up your workout routine improves your overall fitness level, and you'll see more results," says Nottingham.

Use rocks for weights
Do sets of bicep curls, shoulder presses, even back strengthening exercises. "Keep challenging yourself," warns Nottingham, "when exercise feels too comfortable, it's time to use bigger rocks."

Find environmental equipment
Use a park bench or a low tree branch for triceps dips. Or make a curb your substitute gym step with sets of step-ups.

Be a tree hugger
Arbor Day is all about trees, so to celebrate, why not head to the park and find a few trees in a row? Then weave your way between them by walking, jogging or running, just like you would in an obstacle course. "A great exercise in agility, balance, and coordination," says Nottingham.

Give the car the day off
Consider walking to work. If your commute is too long, you might try biking, in-line skating, or jogging. Whatever method you choose, you can't go wrong. They're all great cardio workouts, and help reduce blood pressure, improve circulation, mobility, and, of course, burn calories.

Go green and clean
Looking for ways to take care of the environment and get active? Go to your local park and pick up litter. Incorporate a squat each time you bend down to pick up a piece of trash. At home, lunge your way back and forth from your recycling cans.
Learn more about Weight Watchers here:
Quotes About Weight LossI may want some ice cream, bag of chips, beer, Dr. Pepper, but what I want the MOST is weight loss and to feel better about myself!

Questions to ask ourselves!

 This it what I learned in our Sunday School lesson today. It really made me think. I thought I would share some of the notes from it!
Hope you will take the time to figure out what your answers would be too!
Good night dear friends!

Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me and know my thoughts; see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead in the way everlasting”

Think about…
                “Who am I?” 
                                If you were to write down who you think you are what would you write about yourself?
                                What recommendations or introduction would you write about yourself?
                                What would your tombstone say?


In our life time we should desire to have our heart right before the Lord, in this scripture I think He encourages us to examine our own worthiness.

I am still thinking about how I would answer these questions?

                “Who DO I want to be?”
                                What do you feel you need to do to improve yourself?
                                What would you like to learn?
                                What gifts do you have that could be improved upon or shared with others?


If we have established a proper character, we can confidently invite God to search our hearts.

Saturday, April 20, 2013

Safe and Sound!



So grateful that our little grandson Kai, and his family are safe and sound...after a the terrible tragedy that hit Boston this week. It has been a long week, many prayers in everyone's behalf...lots of phone calls and skype to make sure everyone is doing ok. Still many lifes have been changed for ever and they need our prayers continually!
I am grateful that Kai is too little to understand or remember any of this! Look at that sweet face!



Lee and his roommates got to Idaho safe and sound. They left at 5:00 this morning after I fixed them a BIG breakfast! Can't stand the thoughts of them going hungry! :) Always grateful when they get home safe and  sound.
Lauren leaves us in the morning early...will be hard to tell her good bye. I am telling you ...this Motherhood thing... is much harder on your heart than it looks.
Amy had some pains last night but nothing today...seems like Audrey isn't ready to come yet!
We have been looking at old photos of the kids....how did they grow up so fast? Love these guys!
Lauren spent the evening with her Dad tonight, I am so grateful that Jeff is such an incredible Dad to these kids. They are blessed to have him.
They will be home soon, need to go and spend the last few hours with her! Good night dear friends!

Photo

Getting ready for Good byes and Hellos!

Today we spent most of the day glued to the computer to watch the news that was happening in Boston, only miles from Brad and Krystal's home. We called and checked on them too.They were under lock down, but still it was too close for us. The rest of the time we spent the day getting the boys ready to head back to Idaho tomorrow morning ( opps... I mean today ) and Amy came over with the girls, so that she could get ready for her Doctor appointment. Things are looking better, Audrey seems to be getting lower and is in position. We all celebrated together dinner and a surprise Birthday Cake from Baskin Robbins for Lee ( his old employment ), he will turn 20 in 3 days. But since this was our last time being together before he leaves...we celebrated tonight.
I am teary eyed all ready, really have had a wonderful visit with Lee and his 3 roommates and Lauren too. So tonight after the party, John took the girls home and put them to bed and Amy, Lauren and I went to Fred Myers to get some last minute shopping and to try and walk Amy so much that she would get ready for Miss Audrey to arrive soon. We actually closed down Fred Myers but I was on the floor squating ... not Amy.:)
 I was trying to get off my feet, so I would sit down, lean or squat. Good thing I didn't have a big belly or they would have thought I was the one having the baby. No, I was just hurting after all that walking, even Lauren was extra tired but.... Amy just kept going! :) But by the end of the trip and on the way home, she was starting to feel something sooo.... we had better go to bed in case we get a phone call tonight!
We can hardly wait to say hello and meet Miss Audrey, and I am sad to think that the kids will head home this weekend, why are good byes so hard on a Mom?
Lots of excitement and emotions going on around here you could say!
Good night dear friends!
 baby quote !If you're brave enough to say "Good Bye", life will reward you with a new "hello". #Quote Paulo Coelho

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Waiting! Wondering! and Wishing!

 Waiting!  ( 9:00 a.m.)
Today I went with Lee to get a brain MRI. We have already seen 2 other Doctors ( Specialists ) since he has been home in the last 5 days. Still have no answers ...only suggestions for medications or injections that we could give him...not knowing if what is exactly wrong with him, we decided to hold until we feel right about something. One thing that we kept feeling like we needed to do was to have an MRI on his brain. So that is why we went ahead and scheduled that for today. As I sat there in the waiting room, I silently prayed for two very different things...one that we would find something that would help us figure out what the cause is for these attacks, that he has been having for over 3 years. Then in the very same prayer, I prayed that nothing would be terribly wrong with him...hoping it would be something that we could fix, and not some life long disease or problem. Then I realized that the prayer I had to say next was... to bless him and us, to be able to handle whatever the results are, and that we would know the next direction to go. I also prayed  that Lee would be able to feel some peace if we do get bad news. So I am still waiting, they told us that the DR should be reading the MRI and getting the results to us by 4:00 pm today. 
Need to stay busy and yet continue to pray that as his MOM, I will know what to say and do. I love this boy, it hurts me to see him go through all these tests with no answers. I want so bad to help him in some way and I know I can't. But I can be a strength to him and one who continues to remind him where to get his hope and faith from. My heart still hurts...I need to pray harder!
Wondering! ( 3:45 p.m. )
The nurse called and told us that she had the results back. I know from previous experience IF the nurse can tell you the information ...then it is good news or no newsIf she tells you that your results are in and to hold so she can put the Doctor on the line... then things are bad. She didn't say wait for the Doctor and then proceeded to tell us that everything on the MRI done on his brain looked good and nothing abnormal. I was relieved because there were a few big things that they were looking for, and they weren't there. Still I am worried how Lee is going to take it, when yet another test didn't make us any closer to getting an answer.
Wishing! ( 10:45 p.m. ) Now all I can do is wish and pray that we will get an impression or some thing to let us know what avenue to take next. Until then, I am going to count this as a blessing, his brain looks good...that is no small thing!
Need to go to bed and relax, kind of a stressful day!
Good night dear friends!  

 His little hands ... #motherhood #quotes  It doesn't matter if your children are grown up, you still think of when you fell in love with them that first time you saw them.

 “I remember my mother’s prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life.”  ~Abraham Lincoln

 “Motherhood is near to divinity. It is the highest, holiest service to be assumed by mankind.”  ~Howard W. Hunter

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Everyone is fighting their own battles!

I am reading a book called HOWEVER LONG & HARD THE ROAD by Jeffrey R. Holland, it has been an amazing book so far. Last night I was reading in a chapter about how we all have limitations in our lives but it is how we choose to deal with them, that makes us happy or not. He then goes on to explains about a visit that he and his wife had at a prison. He mentions many things but here are just a few that made me stop and think!
One man who had gotten out of prison and came back to visit said this to the group of men he was speaking to. "Guys, the perspective in prison is really bad. Things really look better on the outside. Try to remember that." Then he turned to the outsiders, to the friends and families who had come in, and said, " You people are a light in a dark place. It it were not for love like yours, we would not be able to get from where we are to where we need to be."
At the end of the meeting  ( which was a graduation ceremony from a year long Bible Study Course ) an inmate who had been conducting the service concluded with some emotion in his voice and tears in his eyes. " This is the most auspicious occasion of our year, " he said of this graduation service. "It is better than Christmas. It's better than Thanksgiving. It's even better than Mother's Day. It's better because we're enlightened, and that's as close as we come to being free."

What a great reminder to all of us to remember that we can choose to be enlightened or not. We can choose to learn and understand or remain in ignorance. But knowledge is POWER, and that is exactly what this book kept reminding you of. This section made me thankful for my ability to keep trying, to not limit myself, to never give up and to remember that everyone is fighting their own battles each day. I think we would all treat others a bit kinder IF we could remember this!
Good night dear friends!
Share the Inspiration ---->> ♥ Words To Inspire the Soul ♥
 
Click www.Daveswordsofwisdom.com for more beautiful and meaningful quotes and images ♥
.

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

What do you think of yourself?

 My daughter sent me this you tube video about how women see themselves. It was a very eye opening experience to watch. So often we don't see ourselves ...half as pretty or wonderful as others see us. Does being that critical about ourselves hurt us...it certainly does. Knowing who you are can help that feeling of inner beauty, and also not trying to compare ourselves to others in the world. Yes, after watching this...I realized that I still have a ways to go in this area!
Watch it...you will be enlightened...to say the least!
here:
Good night dear friends!

“My primary relationship is with myself - all others are mirrors of it. As I learn to love myself, I automatically receive the love and appreciation that I desire from others. If I am committed to myself and to living my truth, I will attract others with equal commitment.”~Shakti Gawain, Reflections in the Lightquotes to live by.  Absolutely!  I'm all about being inspired...and inspiring others to love themselves and be who God called them to be. Believing in ourselves keeps us as an "original" ...and priceless!

Monday, April 15, 2013

What a tragedy!

Today the boys went to Ocean Shores to visit while we had more specialist's appointments for Lee. Hate to have him spend his days home for only a week...visiting Doctors but... since his attacks are still happening we had to get him in while he was here. Still no answers or ideas from this specialist either...he had no idea. He suggested a couple of things but it truly was just a guess! We have more appointments tomorrow so hopefully we would find some answers...it has been 3 years and still we have no answers for my boy! It makes my heart ache. 
While we were in the waiting room, Lauren texted us and told us that there were bombings in Boston, right near the building where our son Bradley works. I didn't panic because when we talked to him yesterday, he said that all the businesses were closing down because of the the Boston Marathon today. Still we couldn't get ahold of them and worried for a bit. Finally we got a call from Brad and he said that he and Krystal had really contemplated going to just experience a part of the Boston history. But they worried that it would be a bit too much to bring Kai to, so they decided to go to a Zoo in Cape Cod. How grateful we are that they decided not to go, because where they would have been would be right at Brad's work and that would have been right across the street from where the bombing was.
Now our thoughts and prayers are all going out to all the people who were effected by this tragedy. I don't think it was an accident that just happened on the World's Oldest Annual Marathon and on Patriot's Day! They knew the world would be watching. It truly is a tragedy. Please everyone, keep them in your prayers. 
Good night dear friends!
 Look for the helpers.

Food for thought!


  As I sit here tonight with a house full of college kids ( that are here between semesters ) and I am so happy to have my house full and with so much fun and laughter in it. I have missed having my kids around, so for a week...I will be very happy! Tonight as I started to do my blog, they all kept helping me and giving me advice so here is one of the stories that they heard and so I looked it up and .... I like it, so I thought I would share it with you tonight. 

Good night dear friends!


The university professor challenged his students with this question. Did God create everything that exists?
A student bravely replied yes, he did!"
"God created everything?" The professor asked.
"Yes, sir," the student replied.

The professor answered, "If God created everything, then God created evil since evil exists, and according to the principal that our works define who we are then God is evil."
The student became quiet before such an answer.

The professor was quite pleased with himself and boasted to the students that he had proven once more that the Christian faith was a myth.

Another student raised his hand and said, "Can I ask you a question professor?" "Of course", replied the professor. The student stood up and asked, "Professor, does cold exist?"

"What kind of question is this? Of course it exists. Have you never been cold?" The students snickered at the young man's question.

The young man replied, "In fact sir, cold does not exist. According to the laws of physics, what we consider cold is in reality the absence of heat. Everybody and every object is susceptible to study when it has or transmits energy, and heat is what makes a body or matter have or transmit energy. Absolute zero (- 460 degrees F) is the total absence of heat; all matter becomes inert and incapable of reaction at that temperature. Cold does not exist. We have created this word to describe how we feel if we have too little heat.

The student continued. "Professor, does darkness exist?"

The professor responded, "Of course it does".

The student replied, "Once again you are wrong sir, darkness does not exist either. Darkness is in reality the absence of light. Light we can study, but not darkness. In fact we can use Newton's prism to break white light into many colors and study the various wavelengths of each color. You cannot measure darkness. A simple ray of light can break into a world of darkness and illuminate it. How can you know how dark a certain space is? You measure the amount of light present. Isn't this correct? Darkness is a term used by man to describe what happens when there is no light present."

Finally the young man asked the professor. "Sir, does evil exist?"

Now uncertain, the professor responded, "Of course as I have already said. We see it every day. It is in the daily example of man's inhumanity to man. It is in the multitude of crime and violence everywhere in the world. "These manifestations are nothing else but evil."

To this the student replied, "Evil does not exist sir, or at least it does not exist unto itself. Evil is simply the absence of God. It is just like darkness and cold, a word that man has created to describe the absence of God. God did not create evil. Evil is not like faith, or love, that exist just as does light and heat. Evil is the result of what happens when man does not have God's love present in his heart. It's like the cold that comes when there is no heat or the darkness that comes when there is no light."

The professor sat down.

The young mans name --- Albert Einstein

Saturday, April 13, 2013

A piece of my history!


When I was a little girl, I can remember staying the night at my Grandma Johnny's house. I used to love crawling up in her big bed and listen to her tell me stories of her past or of her kids when they were little. Her home was a safe place for me as a child and to this day, how grateful I am of that. Just knowing when I was in her home that I would be safe and protected made me have nothing but really FOND memories of her home.  She had a beautiful home, 3 stories and I always hoped that some day my home could look and feel like hers.She had glass doorknobs on many of the doors, I still wish I had those. I loved how she would tell me stories about the furniture and then she would laugh and say " if only this table could talk, all the stories it would tell".
She got sick after I graduated from High School and then she came to live with us for awhile. I still remember being her full time nurse while she was at our house. By the time I left home to serve a mission for my church, she had to go into a nursing home, my Mom could no longer care for her by herself. It was a sad day when they had to tell her that she would ....never go back to her home again! She didn't get to pack things up that she wanted or that meant a lot to her. She just left and never came back.
 When Jeff and I got married, she told me that before they sold the house, that she wanted to give Jeff and I anything out of her home that we needed ( that would be her wedding gift to us ). We got her 4 poster bed, this beautiful chest of drawers ( below) and a few other pieces of furniture, that still are a very important part of our home now. I always tried to get my home to look,smell and feel like hers. I wanted people to feel safe in my home and a place they can be happy and have fun.
Recently we gave Amy and John Grandma Johnny's chest of drawers, because they needed on for their bedroom. It did my heart good when I saw it again, after John painted it. He did an amazing job, and I know my Grandmother, Amy's Great Grandmother would be very proud that it is now in her home and something she is using!
 
Then the next photo is of an old Singer Sewing Cabinet that you could open and pull out a table to sew on. I thought it would be a great little piece of furniture for our soon to be Granddaughter's room, I had no idea how beautiful it would be though after John worked his magic on it! So sweet!
I think making your house a home is a lot of hard work and something that you have to constantly work on. So grateful that both of my married kids, love things from my past,  and also love making their house a HOME that is safe and full of wonderful memories!
Good night dear friends!

"May this Home be blessed with the Laughter of children, the Warmth of a close family, Hope for the future, and fond Memories of the past"

"We inherit from our ancestors gift so often taken for granted...Each of us contains within...this inheritance of the soul. We are links between the ages, containing past and present expectations, sacred memories and future promise."

Another sweet red head! Miss Audrey Jane!

Last night about 10:00 Amy, John and girls arrived to sleep over here and for Amy to be closer to the hospital if needed. By 11:00 the contractions she had been having off and on since 5:00 got more intense. Jeff and John went to bed while they were waiting. Of course I couldn't sleep. I was trying to help watch Amy and make sure we were keeping the contractions timed. When she called the midwife, she told her to just go into the hospital and let them check you and see if you are really even in active labor. So I took Amy, thinking we would let John get as much sleep as he could... I sorta figured it was going to be a long night. As we walked outside to get in the car, I told Amy  "Well, there is a full moon out tonight and it is just after midnight plus it is her Due Date, so... this is probably going to be it!
The contractions were getting more steady after we had been there only a short time, so they decided to put her in a room. Less than 45 mins I think it was, she dilated from a 4 to a 9 and so it was show time. I called Jeff and told him to wake up John and send him to the hospital. She had a couple of friends who were there to help too, so she had a ton of support.
After 2 1/2 hours of pushing, Miss Audrey Jane was born at 4 :34 AM right on her due date! Amy asked that they not weigh her or clean her up for the first hour... but let her just hold her, and that was neat. Wish I could have had that with my babies, probably could have just didn't know that at the time. Not knowing what her weight was, everyone started guessing... I thought maybe 10lbs, she is really big and beautiful and has red hair; not nearly as red or as much as her sisters but red none the less. I left the hospital at 6:30am and got home and slept a couple of hours, jumped up showered and headed back to the hospital for the day. How fun to just hold Audrey. Neat to see how excited the girls are to have her.
(Just a few hours old )
Then tonight Jeff and I took the girls to dinner and then home to bed. Fun to hear Jenny asked on the way home "Nana, did you see my cute sister Baby Audrey?" Yes! " Is she going to be able to go home with us?" Yes,  " Oh good, Angie, did  you hear that? We get to keep Baby Audrey FOREVER! It was sweet.
We only have one photo, you can tell we are all wiped out by no sleep. Will get more soon.
I am just so grateful for the chance to be there and witness such a Miracle, and that is definitely what LIFE is...a Miracle. So glad that they are both here safe and sound. We have definitely been waiting for you Miss Audrey! Good night dear friend!

"May you touch dragonflies and stars, dance with the fairies and talk to the moon. May you grow up with love and gracious hearts and people who care. Welcome to the world little one, it's been waiting for you!"








Wednesday, April 10, 2013

All about choices, again!

Today started out great, I had a massage and was able to quiet down some of the inflammation in my neck and back. I am telling you my massage therapist is AMAZING! I was still hurting from the exam I had to have on Monday through our insurance. I struggled to know if I shouldn't have stopped the chiropractor that was being so tough on me. I think if I hadn't even had too many neck issues...he sure would have given them to me. So for the last two days I have been in a whole lot more pain and frustrated because when I am sitting at the sewing machine  ( which is often, because that is my job ) it hurts a  lot too! So the massage was a welcome relief.
I had a great day at work and had a lot of wonderful comments on my new line of projects for It's A Girl!
Then on the way home I stopped into Weight Watchers to weigh in for the month. It has been 9 months that I have been on Maintenance and I have only gained or lost one pound ...more than once during that 9 months, I guess that isn't bad. Maintaning the exact weight isn't as easy as it looks. I knew the last couple of weeks that I felt like I had gained and ....sure enough I had. I gained 2 lbs and 1 oz! Now many of you may think that isn't much and it isn't in some ways, and in other ways it is!  2lb and if you don't get rid of that then you gain another pound or more back... and pretty soon it is 5 pounds or so.
So I need to make better choices and ones that I will thank myself for in the future! And I will!
Good night dear friends!

PhotoThis is a really good quote to remember

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Ready to go to Grandma's House!

I am just going to have to write a few Happy Thoughts tonight, because I am working on a new line of fabric that we just got in. It is called Little Red Riding Hood by Tasha Noel. It is just too cute. She is a local artist here in Seattle! I will give you a sneak peak of what I have been working on all day, plus the pillow I made earlier out of this line of fabric.

Pretty cute isn't it? Doesn't it just make you want to go to Grandma's house? I still have to get ready for my class tomorrow so...here are my happy thoughts as I promised!

"Start your day with at least one Happy Thought and  you can change the direction of your whole day!" ~Katrina Mayer  

"Don't let a bad day, make you feel like you have a bad life!"

The happiness of your life...depends on the quality of your thoughts!"




Always be nicer than you feel!

Today was a BIGGER THAN ME DAY TODAY!  I started out getting a few things done before I headed off to Physical Therapy. It felt so good to get adjusted and things on my back and neck lined up. I missed one day last week, and so it was a pretty painful weekend.  I was grateful to be there today.
 After that appointment, I had to go to a appointment for the Insurance company. I forgot what the appointment was called... but basically you have to see two Doctors that my Insurance Company picks out and they have to exam me and see if I am being honest on my PIP Claims that I have had from my car accidents. I realize that there are many people who try to cheat the system but... I am not one of them! Of course they have no way of knowing that.  But I tried to go in with an open mind. Both Doctors were nice, there wasn't any connection making at all. Just sorta ... " just answer the question" type things. Frustrated me that they didn't look over the notes from the people who are treating me since the accidents.
The last part was physical exams, some things I just couldn't do but when it came time for the Chiropractor to check me, then he was much rougher than I expected and especially with my neck. I mentioned at one point that I should have gotten my adjustment after this appointment. The Chiropractor just said " Oh, we aren't going to do anything that would cause you any problems"
 How wrong he was, because he messed with my neck so much ... I was hurting and light headed when I got out of there. I know to many people that I look strong and that you would never know I had back or neck issues, but you would have thought that they after having read the Doctor's notes that they would have been a bit easier on me. How I wish things like this didn't hurt my neck and back but... they do and they did!
When I came home, I got ice on my neck, took some Advil and headed to bed for an hour....Jeff's ORDER...to do that. I was discouraged that I had just been adjusted and then felt like everything was undone after the 2nd appointment. I was frustrated that I am not as tough as most people, but I am not...or at least not right now. As Jeff and I was talking, I realized that almost everything I said was negative in some way, Jeff recognized that I was really hurting,, and that is when he sent me to bed. I am so glad he did...that helped a lot. Still sore tonight, and so I think I will do the same ICE and heat on it.
So the old saying " Always be nicer than you feel " directly applied to me today.
Sorta wished I would have seen this sign (BELOW) this morning, and I could have just gone right back to bed!  But there is always something to be grateful for and so I am grateful for the chance to have a great PT and a Massage Therapist who truly help me overcome my pain. I am grateful to have insurance ( even though it can be a pain at times ), I know there are many out there who don't have it or can't afford it...so I am grateful for that...not for the crazy system that comes with it, but for the chance to have it. Grateful that I have a wonderful family who supports me on my BIGGER THAN ME DAYS. So there is a lot to be grateful for. But it is time to go to bed. Yes, I hope tomorrow is a  better day! Good night dear friends!
Today has been canceled. It would be nice to have one day just to relax and do nothing lol

Sunday, April 7, 2013

We need to be the light!

Today I heard someone at church speak on the topic of Light, Faith and Hope. You can listen to it yourself, it is found here: I loved that analogy that was given about Light. A couple of the quotes were... "Darkness cannot exist when there is Light", and another one is  "Happiness is contagious" that is certainly true. Think of the people you know who are Happy, you know the Half Full type of people, who seem to always bring Happiness where ever they go. Don't you catch yourself wanting to spend more time with them. Just being with them seems to make you feel better. I think that we are all suppose to be more like that person we are talking about. Those people seem to have a Light within because of the Faith they have and the HOPE that the Faith gives them. When  you have Hope, you have Light at the end of the tunnel and just knowing we aren't alone in our trials and struggles; that we have a loving Heavenly Father and our Savior Jesus Christ to be there with us always .... does bring a Happiness that you can't find in this world.
It made me want to try and be more full of Faith and Hope, and to be that PERSON that seems to carry a Light within them. Yes, this was an inspiring talk to say the least!
Just what I needed to hear today!
Hope you had a wonderful Sabbath!
Good night dear friends!  

 "A good teacher is like a candle - it consumes itself, to the light the way for others."

"Be the light that helps Others to see" 

I like this quote too: "I want to walk as a child of light, I want to follow Jesus... In Him there is no darkness at all, the night and the day are both alike, the Lamb is the light of the city of God, shine in my heart, Lord Jesus..."


Deep Water!

We switched our Date Night from last night to tonight, because I am still trying to get my house back in order after re-carpeting my Sewing Room...or what I now call my Sewing Studio. No it isn't any bigger, but it's cleaner, and I have changed the colors to add RED. RED makes me happy and yes my Sewing Studio...is my Happy Place! I will get photos of it soon.
 For our Date Night we decided to stay home and watch a movie. The movie we chose was called Chasing Mavericks
Wikipedia...Chasing Mavericks is based on the life of surfer Jay Moriarity. It chronicles his quest to surf the big Mavericks wave in Northern California, and Frosty Hesson  ( Gerard Butler ), the local legend who takes him under his wing in order to train him to survive it. In the course of Moriarty's training, the two surfers form a unique friendship. After he became famous, he died in a free-diving accident.
 It was based off a true story and I liked it and didn't like it all at the same time. Why? Well, I loved the boy and the character he played. True and honest and always looking for the good in everyone. He didn't have his Dad in his life, but he still was a survivor and loved and took care of his Mother...who was struggling too. He was one of those type of people that everybody wanted to be around. Solid to the core.
The reason that I didn't like it was because it was all about DEEP DEEP WATER and that is one of my least favorite things. I mean I know how to swim but... I really am scared of DEEP WATER, so it was a bit tough watching that. But I love the whole moral of the story. So if you aren't too scared of DEEP WATER then this is the movie for you.
Good night dear friends!
Chasing Mavericks (2012) Poster
"The SEA once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder FOREVER"  ~Jacques Yves Cousteau 

"I need the sea because it teaches me."  ~ Pablo Neruda




Friday, April 5, 2013

From the mouths of our children!

This is soooooooo sweet. We could all learn a lot IF we listened to the children more.
Watch this video for yourself and see, go here:
Good night dear friends!

Because kids really are miracles from God

Our Little Man

For my work at the Quilt Shop this month I will be teaching fun and cute project ideas for little boys. I can't help but think of my little grandson when I am creating these things! So many things I want to make  for him. 
Focusing on these things made me realize how much I miss this little man of ours!  I look at his sweet photos and realize that he has already grown so much and just can't help but wonder what he will great things he will do in his life! We feel so blessed to have the chance to be in his life! We love and miss you Kai!  Nana and Poppa
 

For my boys James && Noah. I love you so so much

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

10 Laws of Life!

 I haven't watched a lot of Dr. Phil shows, but I have read a book or two of his. I like some of the perspectives he gives, thought I would share them with you tonight! Good night dear friends!

The 10 Life Laws of Dr. Phil McGraw

1st Law...You either get it, or you don't.

In his usually blunt way, Dr. Phil is telling us that we need to understand why we do things or don't do things.  Only then can we decide what to change, how to change it and whether it is even worth changing.  This is the very underpinning of self-help.  For instance, there are a thousand things any of us can do to become happier.  Only by understanding what makes us act the way we do, can we determine how much effort it would take to make a particular change. Sometimes it even helps to hire a professional - a therapist - to help see clearer, beyond personal assumptions that can cloud our vision. How well do you know yourself? 

2nd Law...You create your own experience.

It is easy to blame others for our state of being, our position in society and for poor relationships. Dr. Phil is making it clear that we have the right and the power to take charge and make our life what we want it to be.

3rd Law... People Do What Works.

We saw this in Dr. Phil's Ultimate Weight Loss Challenge. You have to identify the payoffs and use them as motivators. For instance, how many people do you know who are stuck in a job they don't like or have simply outgrown? They want out but... What keeps them there? Simple. They are stuck in a comfort zone, and the payoff is that they don't have to worry about the risks of change. You have to create your own motivation, and it has to be strong enough to leave your comfort zone and make the changes you need. 

4thLaw...You can't change what you don't acknowledge.

Welcome to perhaps the toughest of Dr. Phil's laws. It is tough because we often make excuses for our behaviors. We don't want to admit to others or to ourselves that we have a problem. That is why AA considers it so important for members to say the words: "I am an alcoholic". Whether it is an addiction, a bad habit, a character weakness or a fear that haunts you, the first step is to admit the problem. Acknowledge what is not working in your life. Dr. Phil McGraw points out that you can lie to yourself in two ways: you can tell yourself something that is not true, or you can leave out the details you don't wish to acknowledge. Either way, you gain nothing by deceiving yourself. This returns to Law #1: You either get it, or you don't. If you lie to yourself, you won't get it. BTW, sometimes it helps to talk to your journal, when expressing your feeling out loud is too difficult.

5th Life Law...Life rewards action.

So you've set a goal, you've made your plans, and you are all ready to taste success. Why is it not happening yet? Dr. Phil says it is because we left out the most important part - action! This is the biggest weakness of the self-help movement. Lot's of pretty words, but precious little action.

6th Life Law...There is no reality, only perception.

This is a really hard one for some people to grasp, since our perceptions always seem so real. Of course, Dr. Phil McGraw knows there is a reality. The sun shines, whether we perceive it to be a wonderful, bright day or a dreadfully hot day. But our experience, our emotions, our results are determined by that filter of how we perceive the sun. Perception is a choice, whether conscious or not. If there is one thing you can do for yourself, starting now, is to decide to perceive things positively. You will be amazed what a wonderful world this is when you become 100% committed to viewing it that way.

7th Law...Life is managed, not cured.

Too many people look to self help books  to "cure" them of a fear or a depression or an addiction or whatever haunts them. Dr. Phil is telling us very directly that there is no cure for life. If you keep looking for one, you won't see what the good self-help books really have to offer: strategies for managing life. If, for instance, you were born or developed over-abundant energy, learn how to channel it to help others rather than annoy them. If you have a food addiction, learn techniques to turn your attention to the right foods. If you have a fear, learn how to overcome the fear (feel the fear and do it anyway) or how to keep away from what causes the fear. In the end, what counts is your life. Some is good, some not. If you can manage it well, life will be much more pleasant than if you chase after some magic cure that simply does not exist.

8th Law...We teach people how to treat us.

Have you ever taught a dog to obey a command? Dr. Phil McGraw is saying that humans are not that different. We respond to rewards and threats. When a result feels good, we are likely to repeat it. When it feels bad, we are less likely to repeat it. Every time we react to what somebody else says or does, we are teaching her how to treat us. If you don't like how somebody is treating you, you can curse and blame...or you can retrain that person. This is an area that might require professional help to explain what reactions you need to make in order to train the other person. But, just like with good dog obedience school, you will be training yourself at the same time. Are you ready to train?

9th Law...There is power in forgiveness.

We all carry with us baggage from everything we have experienced, including resentment or even anger. This is heavy baggage to bear, and Dr. Phil thinks we should unload it through forgiveness. Forgiveness opens the way to reduced stress, better health, peace and, of course, much more happiness in life. Perhaps you resent something your parents did or didn't do. You can do nothing to change what has happened. But you can forgive them. You can release the anger. You can release YOURSELF from the chains of anger. Forgive and fly free.

10th Law...You have to name it to claim it.

It is amazing what power language grants us. It language that allows us to formulate ideas and share them with others. Dr Phil tells us to put a specific label on what we want. "I want to be happier" is not very specific. "I want to receive support from friends when I announce plans I have" is a much more specific goal. More specific still is "I want my friends to help me stick to my diet". The more specific, the more likely you will succeed.


Read more: http://www.thehappyguy.com/dr-phil-mcgraw.html#ixzz29LOB4sAu

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Life's lessons!

Now you would think at my age, that I would have figured out most things by now...but not true. Just recently I spent time with a person who makes fun of me a lot, and criticizes me a lot. Many times they are in a joking way, but I realized this week that when I am with this person ...that I always feel bad or catch myself apologizing for things; things that I shouldn't apologize for. Now I understand that we don't have to be friends with everyone. Still it hurts when you are trying so hard to be friends and spend the time with them, and you realize it is not good for you. It isn't healthy to let someone treat you that way... and it isn't a true friend IF they do. These are all the things I have taught my kids for years. Tonight I finally realized that I need to remember these quotes and apply them to my life! I think this is called WISDOM... but sometimes it hurts!
Good night dear friends!
quotes about people who try to control you - Google SearchThe sadest truth about this quote is that some of the people who drain you are family...you never got the choice to pick them.quote about people

Monday, April 1, 2013

Blessings!

Heard this song on the radio, so true!!!
Good night dear friends!

"Blessings"

We pray for blessings, we pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
And all the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

'Cause what if your blessings come through rain drops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom, Your voice to hear
We cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt your goodness, we doubt your love
As if every promise from Your word is not enough
And all the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe

'Cause what if your blessings come through rain drops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know that pain reminds this heart
That this is not,
This is not our home
It's not our home

'Cause what if your blessings come through rain drops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near

What if my greatest disappointments or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy
What if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are your mercies in disguise  ~ Laura Story